GOVERNANCE

Office of the
Speaker

Ensuring effective democratic governance through oversight of Council processes, legislative compliance and promotion of public participation.

Core Objectives and Functions

Core Objective

To uphold and strengthen democratic governance by ensuring effective functioning of Council, oversight of legislative processes, and promotion of public participation.

Core Functions

✔ Presiding over Council meetings
✔ Ensuring compliance with legislation
✔ Oversight of Council committees
✔ Safeguarding integrity of Council
✔ Facilitating communication with the public
✔ Promoting ethical conduct and accountability

Vision

A credible, transparent and people‑centred Council that upholds democratic values and responsive governance.

Mission

To lead and support Council in fulfilling its legislative and oversight responsibilities through fair leadership and inclusive public participation.

Guiding Principles

Democratic accountability Impartiality and fairness Rule of law Ethical leadership Public participation Batho Pele principles

Aims

✔ Strengthen Council effectiveness
✔ Promote public participation
✔ Ensure legislative compliance

Key Objectives

✔ Ensure lawful Council meetings
✔ Support councillors
✔ Facilitate public access to information
✔ Promote stable governance

Management Structure

Speaker of Council
Legislative oversight and governance
Deputy Speaker
Support to the Speaker
Chief Whip / Whips
Political coordination
Office Manager / Secretary
Operations and administration
Committee Clerks
Secretariat support
Public Participation Unit
Community engagement coordination
Administrative Support
Records and enquiries

Public Documents

Speaker Profile
Council Rules
Meeting Schedules
Agendas & Minutes
Public Participation Notices
Code of Conduct

Services to the Public

ServiceDescriptionTurnaroundUnit
Council Enquiries Information on Council processes 3–5 days Speaker Office
Document Access Agendas and minutes 5–7 days Secretariat
Public Participation Participation guidance 5–10 days Participation Unit
Meeting Attendance Attend Council meetings As scheduled Office

Disclaimer: Turnaround times depend on Council schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Speaker do?

Presides over Council and ensures compliance with legislation.

Does the Speaker make executive decisions?

No, executive decisions are handled by the Executive Mayor.

How can the public participate?

Through meetings, submissions and participation processes.

How do I get agendas or minutes?

Available online or via request from the office.

Contact Details

📍 Civic Centre

📞 051 XXX XXXX

📧 speaker@municipality.gov.za

Map: Google Maps link

Restricted: Internal Council procedures, correspondence and reports are accessible via the municipal intranet only.